Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Global: What a sunny van Gogh painting of ‘The Sower’ tells us about Pope Leo’s message of hope

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Virginia Raguin, Distinguished Professor of Humanities Emerita, College of the Holy Cross

    Vincent van Gogh’s ‘Sower at Sunset’ painting. Vincent van Gogh/ Kröller-Müller Museum via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-NC-SA

    In his first general audience in Rome, Pope Leo XIV referred to Vincent van Gogh’s painting “Sower at Sunset” and called it a symbol of hope. A brilliant setting sun illuminates a field as a farmer walks toward the right, sowing seeds.

    Leo referred to Christ’s Parable of the Sower, a story in the Gospel that speaks to the need to do good works. “Every word of the Gospel is like a seed sown in the soil of our lives,” he said, and highlighted that the soil is not only our heart, “but also the world, the community, the church.”

    He noted that “behind the sower, van Gogh painted the grain already ripe,” and Leo called it an image of hope which shows that somehow the seed has borne fruit.

    Van Gogh painted “Sower at Sunset” in 1888, when he was living in Arles in southern France. At the time, he was creating art alongside his friend Paul Gauguin and feeling very happy about the future. The painting reflects his optimism.

    Van Gogh’s inspiration

    In November 1888, van Gogh wrote to his brother Theo, in whom he frequently confided, about “Sower at Sunset.” He described its beautiful colors: “Immense lemon-yellow disc for the sun. Green-yellow sky with pink clouds. The field is violet, the sower and the tree Prussian Blue.”

    ‘The Sower,’ by Jean-François Millet.
    Museum of Fine Arts, Boston via Wikimedia Commons

    Van Gogh’s painting was inspired by French artist Jean-Francois Millet’s 1860 painting, “The Sower.” But he transformed Millet’s composition, in which a dark, isolated figure dominates, and deliberately set the sower in the midst of a landscape transformed by the sun.

    Other artists, including the Norwegian Emanuel Vigeland, explicitly depicted the Parable of the Sower. Vigeland’s series of stained-glass windows in an Oslo church explains each passage’s meaning. As the sower works, some seeds fall by the wayside and the birds immediately eat them, indicating those who hear the word of God but do not listen.

    Norwegian artist Emanuel Vigeland’s ‘Parable of the Sower,’ 1917-19, Lutheran church of Borgestad, near Oslo, Norway.
    Virginia Raguin

    Some seeds fall on stony ground and cannot take root, a symbol of those with little tenacity. Others fall among thorns and are choked. Vigeland juxtaposed a dramatic image of a miser counting piles of money, indicating how the man’s life has become choked by desire for material gain.

    The final passage of the parable states that some seeds fell on good ground and yielded a hundredfold. Vigeland’s depiction shows an image of an abundant harvest of grain next to a man seated on the ground and cradling a child in his lap.

    What it says about Leo

    Van Gogh’s painting corresponds to many of the ideas the new pope expressed in the first days of his papacy. Leo observed: “In the center of the painting is the sun, not the sower, [which reminds us that] it is God who moves history, even if he sometimes seems absent or distant. It is the sun that warms the clods of the earth and ripens the seed.”

    The theme of the dignity of labor is also inherent in the image of the sower being deeply engrossed in physical labor, which relates to the pope’s choice of his name. The pope stated that he took on the name Leo XIV “mainly because Pope Leo XIII in his historic encyclical Rerum Novarum addressed the social question in the context of the first great industrial revolution.” Leo XIII was referring to the social question of economic injustice in the meager rewards for workers even as owners made great profits from the Industrial Revolution.

    The pope saw Van Gogh’s image of the sower, like Vigeland’s, as a message of hope. That message, to him, fits with the theme of hope of The Jubilee Year proclaimed by Leo’s predecessor, Francis. Leo also expressed hope that humans listening to God would embrace service to others.

    Virginia Raguin does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. What a sunny van Gogh painting of ‘The Sower’ tells us about Pope Leo’s message of hope – https://theconversation.com/what-a-sunny-van-gogh-painting-of-the-sower-tells-us-about-pope-leos-message-of-hope-258040

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: M5 Junction 10 Improvements Scheme development consent decision announced

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    M5 Junction 10 Improvements Scheme development consent decision announced

    The M5 Junction 10 Improvements Scheme application has today been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Transport.

    M5 Junction 10 Improvements Scheme

    The application includes the following: (1) Improvements to Junction 10 on the M5; (2) A new road linking Junction 10 to west Cheltenham; (3) Widening of the A4019, east of Junction 10; and (4) Provision of separate, dedicated footways and cycle lanes for non-motorised traffic along the local roads within scheme limits. 

    The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by Gloucestershire County Council on 19 December 2023 and accepted for examination on 16 January 2024.  

    Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 4th March 2025.   

    This is the 58th transport application out of 157 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.   

    Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in this six-month examination.   

    The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.  

    The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Transport and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website.  

    Journalists wanting further information should contact the Planning Inspectorate Press Office, on 0303 444 5004 or 0303 444 5005 or email:   

    Press.office@planninginspectorate.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Collision between a train and an agricultural trailer at Nordan Farm user worked level crossing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Collision between a train and an agricultural trailer at Nordan Farm user worked level crossing

    Investigation into a collision between a passenger train and an agricultural trailer at Nordan Farm user worked level crossing, near Leominster, Herefordshire, 22 May 2025.

    The train and trailer involved.

    At around 10:37 on 22 May 2025, the 08:30 Transport for Wales passenger service from Manchester to Cardiff struck a loaded agricultural trailer which was being hauled by a tractor across Nordan Farm user worked level crossing, near to Leominster. RAIB’s initial analysis indicates that the train was travelling at around  80 mph (129 km/h) when it struck the trailer. As a result of the collision, the trailer parted from the tractor and became wedged on the front of the train. The train then ran for around 500 metres under braking before it came to a stand.

    The train did not derail as a result of the accident but its leading vehicle, a driving van trailer, and some of the leading passenger coaches suffered damage. Of the 66 passengers and 8 staff on board, 6 passengers were reportedly treated for minor injuries. The tractor driver was uninjured. Damage was also caused to the trailer that was struck by the train and to track, lineside equipment and a second level crossing located beyond Nordan Farm.

    Nordan Farm user worked crossing is fitted with telephones. Users are directed by signs at the crossing to use the telephones to obtain permission from the signaller before opening the crossing gates and crossing the railway. The evidence available to RAIB shows that the driver of the tractor involved in this accident telephoned the signaller before using the crossing. 

    Our investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the accident and will include consideration of:

    • the actions of those involved and any factors that may have influenced them
    • any previous incidents at Nordan Farm user worked crossing and how these may be relevant to this accident
    • the management of risk at this crossing and Network Rail’s wider strategy for assessing and mitigating risks at user worked crossings
    • any relevant underlying factors.

    Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

    We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.

    You can subscribe to automated emails notifying you when we publish our reports.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: Four major sports festivals will be held in Moscow this year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Sergei Sobyanin signed a resolution on the Moscow Government’s support for four large-scale sporting events that will take place this year.

    “Moscow is a real city of sports. We create all the conditions for fans of an active lifestyle: from playgrounds near home to major city events,” the Mayor of Moscow noted in

    on your telegram channel.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin 

    “Big Run Fest” (July 2025)

    Thus, in July, the Big Run Fest will take place. The big running festival will turn into a grand city celebration with sports immersive excursions, live music, competitions, quizzes and a food court. Those who wish will be able to run three distances: five, 10 and 15 kilometers along the Garden Ring. It is expected that up to 100 thousand people will take part in the races.

    Extreme Moscow City Games (September 2025)

    The main event of the summer for fans of extreme sports will bring together athletes from more than 15 countries. The program includes moto freestyle on a motorcycle and snowmobile, stunt riding, a stage of the Russian BMX Cup, the Russian Roller Sports Championship, the Workout World Cup and parkour competitions.

    The festival will feature ramps for roller skates, scooters and BMX, a pump track and a flatland zone. Those who wish will be able to listen to performances by DJs and bands, spend time in recreation areas and have a snack in the food court. More than 45 thousand guests are expected.

    “Cyberzarnitsa” (September 2025)

    A large-scale festival, participants of which will be able to test their strength in tactical shooting, UAV control, orienteering and other disciplines. There will also be tournaments and a show match in CS2. About 50 thousand participants are expected.

    Alexey Nemov’s gymnastics show “Legends of Sport” (October 2025)

    The theatrical show by Olympic champion Alexey Nemov will combine sports, artistic, aerial and aesthetic gymnastics, acrobatics and circus arts. The event has been held since 2006.

    This year the show will be held at the Megasport Sports Palace named after A.V. Tarasov. It will gather more than 450 athletes, including Olympic, world and European champions. As in previous years, there will be at least four thousand spectators.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/1290305/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SUM among the best universities in Russia according to RAEX

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The State University of Management entered the fourteenth annual ranking of the best universities in Russia RAEX-100.

    For seven years now, GUU has consistently been included in the list of the best universities in the country.

    The RAEX agency rating is part of the “Three University Missions” rating family. The study was prepared using statistical indicators, as well as the results of surveys of over 150,000 respondents: representatives of academic and scientific circles, students, graduates and employers. In total, the rating uses 44 indicators.

    In addition, the State University of Management showed decent results in subject rankings:

    “Hospitality Industry” – 13th place “Sociology” – 16th place “Management” – 17th place

    It should be noted that this year the RAEX agency updated the subject rankings of the “Three University Missions” family, excluding “State and Municipal Administration” from the list, in which SUM took 20th place in 2024.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Martha Stewart to Keynote Applied Net 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chicago, IL., June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems® and Applied Client Network today announced that entrepreneur, best-selling author of 101 books, and Emmy Award-winner Martha Stewart will be the featured keynote speaker at Applied Net 2025. The lifestyle expert founded Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, the first multi-channel company, which today reaches more than 100 million devoted fans on a monthly basis through her magazines, television shows, books, and products for the home. Martha will share her incredible journey of building a media empire from the ground up.

    “The insurance industry is built on entrepreneurial professionals who have turned their passion for helping people and communities safeguard and protect what matters most into a career, much like Martha Stewart has done with her passions for all things style and elegance,” said Brian Langerman, chief executive officer, Applied Client Network. “This year’s keynote will inspire our guests from across the insurance industry to continue turning their passion into new ways to serve their clients and build their businesses.”

    “Martha Stewart is one of the most successful and iconic business leaders of our time, with so many experiences to share that will inspire and motivate our Applied Net guests to dream big and turn their passions into great experiences for their teams and their clients,” said Taylor Rhodes, chief executive officer, Applied Systems. “Personally, I can’t wait for the Applied Net community to be inspired by her wisdom, wit and the many successes she’s accomplished in the business world and beyond.” 

    # # #

    The Applied products and logos are trademarks of Applied Systems, Inc., registered in the U.S.

    About Applied Systems
    Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applied’s people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ​Bundeswehr and Lufthansa Group agree on partnership for the Heimatschutz​

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    The Landeskommando Hessen of the Bundeswehr and the Lufthansa Group have agreed on a partnership for reserve duty. The Lufthansa Group supports employees who decide to volunteer for the Heimatschutz – including by granting them time off for training and further education, as well as for possible deployments. With this partnership, the Lufthansa Group draws attention to the integral role of volunteers in the Heimatschutz and enables its employees to actively contribute to the security and protection of society.

    On June 4, Michael Niggemann, member of the Executive Board of Deutsche Lufthansa AG and responsible for Human Resources & Legal Affairs, accepted the partnership certificate from Brigadier General Holger Radmann. In his role as Labor Director, he says: 

    “We are looking forward to actively contributing to Germany’s security architecture as a new partner for Heimatschutz. In view of the current security policy situation and the often cited ‘Zeitenwende’, it is particularly important to us to sensitize our employees to the importance of the Heimatschutz.” 

    The Lufthansa Group informs its employees specifically about the new offer and works closely with the Landeskommando Hessen to ensure the best possible preparation and integration into the reserve service. The offer is open to all Lufthansa Group employees with a German passport. Whether leave of absence can be granted will be examined on a case-by-case basis. Due to the large number of Lufthansa Group employees in the Rhine-Main region, the Heimatschutzregiment 5 in Hesse in particular will be supported. This means that the Lufthansa Group joins around 250 employers in Hesse who are already partners for the Heimatschutz. 2,400 volunteers from Hesse have already signed up for the Heimatschutzregiment 5 in Hesse. Their tasks include protecting critical infrastructure, securing transport routes and providing regional assistance in disaster situations. 

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: TOP Ships Inc. Announces Intention to Spin Off a New Nasdaq-Listed Suezmax Tanker Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATHENS, Greece, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TOP Ships Inc. (the “Company” or “TOP Ships”) (NYSE American: TOPS), an international owner and operator of modern, fuel-efficient “ECO” tanker vessels, announced today that it intends to effect a spin-off of two of its Suezmax tanker vessels.

    Rubico Inc. (“Rubico”), currently a subsidiary of TOP Ships, would become an independent publicly-traded company listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market as a result of the planned spin-off. The initial assets of Rubico will be the M/T Eco Malibu and M/T Eco West Coast, each a modern, high specification, scrubber-fitted and fuel-efficient 157,000 dwt Suezmax tanker.

    As part of the spin-off transaction, TOP Ships intends to distribute 100% of the common shares of Rubico to its securityholders of record as of June 16, 2025. The distribution of common shares of Rubico is expected to be made on or around June 30, 2025. Following the spin-off, there are expected to be no overlapping board members or executive officers between Rubico and TOP Ships.

    In the spin-off distribution, TOP Ships intends to distribute 100% of the common shares of Rubico pro rata to the common shareholders of TOP Ships and to all holders of outstanding common stock purchase warrants of TOP Ships on an as-exercised basis.

    TOP Ships securityholders do not need to take any action to receive Rubico shares to which they are entitled, and do not need to pay any consideration or surrender or exchange TOP Ships common shares. TOP Ships common shareholders (and warrantholders on an as-exercised basis) will receive one Rubico common share for every two TOP Ships common shares held at the close of business on June 16, 2025, the record date for the distribution. Fractional common shares of Rubico will not be distributed. Instead, the distribution agent will aggregate fractional common shares into whole shares, sell such whole shares in the open market at prevailing rates promptly after Rubico’s common shares commence trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market, and distribute the net cash proceeds from the sales pro rata to each holder who would otherwise have been entitled to receive fractional common shares in the distribution.

    In connection with the spin-off transaction, Rubico expects to raise $1.5 million in a private placement of its common shares at a purchase price of $20.00 per share. The private placement will be conditioned on and is expected to close concurrently with the spin-off distribution.

    Rubico will file a registration statement on Form 20-F with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the proposed spin-off. The transaction remains subject to such registration statement being declared effective and the approval of the listing of Rubico’s common shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market. There can be no assurance that the transaction will occur or, if it does occur, of its terms or timing. TOP Ships may, at any time, decide to abandon the spin-off. A copy of the registration statement on Form 20-F filed by Rubico will be available at www.sec.gov.

    About TOP Ships Inc.

    TOP Ships Inc. is an international owner and operator of ocean-going vessels focusing on modern, fuel-efficient eco tanker vessels transporting crude oil, petroleum products (clean and dirty) and bulk liquid chemicals. For more information about TOP Ships Inc., visit its website: www.topships.org.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Matters discussed in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides safe harbor protections for forward-looking statements in order to encourage companies to provide prospective information about their business. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding the proposed spin-off and the prospects and strategies of TOP Ships and Rubico following the spin-off, the valuation of the shares of Rubico and TOP Ships following the spin-off, and the listing of Rubico’s common shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

    The Company desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “believe,” “anticipate,” “intends,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “potential,” “may,” “should,” “expect,” “pending,” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including, without limitation, our management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records, and other data available from third parties. Although we believe that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs, or projections. Please see our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof, and we disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward‐looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this communication.

    For further information please contact:

    Alexandros Tsirikos
    Chief Financial Officer
    TOP Ships Inc.
    Tel: +30 210 812 8107
    Email: atsirikos@topships.org

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green Party says Planning and Infrastructure Bill can and must create affordable homes and boost nature  

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    The Green Party has said that the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently going through parliament, must protect nature and build much-needed new social housing. 

    The call comes as analysis suggests 5,000 of England’s key natural habitats are at high risk of being destroyed by development under the Bill as it threatens to make it easier for developers to build on areas that have historically been protected under UK and international law. 

    Reacting to the analysis, Adrian Ramsay MP, co-leader of the Green Party, said: 

    “This new analysis, suggesting thousands of important wildlife sites are at risk from the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, should serve as a wake-up call. Nature in the UK is already in serious decline, with one in six species at risk of extinction, and species declining by 19% since 1970.  

    “This Bill is dangerous, giving the green light for developers to pursue profit rather than meet the needs of people for homes and nature for protection. But we can have safe, warm homes in the communities we love at a price we can afford, and look after nature.” 

    Ramsay added: 

    “We can and we must tackle both the housing crisis and the nature crisis but as it stands, the legislation fails on both counts. It clearly weakens nature protection while doing precisely nothing to ensure that new housing is genuinely affordable. The government has refused to specify social housing targets, and has given developers a license to bulldoze nature.  

    “The government needs to be tougher, requiring developers to build a higher proportion of genuinely affordable homes to rent and to buy. We need the right homes, in the right place, at the right price. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill must ensure this.  

    “We need to strengthen the role of neighbourhood plans, giving local people opportunities to demand more social homes – affordable homes that people actually need – and listening to them when they raise concerns about threats to nature and green spaces. We all need nature in our backyards.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Polymath Research Inc. to Present at the Blockchain and Digital Assets Virtual Investor Conference June 5th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Polymath Research Inc., based in Toronto is a fintech company pioneering the infrastructure for compliant tokenization of real-world assets on the blockchain. Today it was announced that Vince Kadar, CEO, will present live at the Blockchain and Digital Assets Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on June 5th, 2025

    DATE: June 5th
    TIME: 10am EST
    LINK: REGISTER HERE
    Available for 1×1 meetings: June 5, 6, 9, 10

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    Recent Company Highlights

    • Amalgamation Agreement relating to Reverse Takeover (RTO)

    On May 13th, AnalytixInsight Inc. (TSXV: ALY) (OTC Pink: ATIXF) announced an amended and restated amalgamation agreement (original amalgamation agreement was dated March 3rd, 2025) relating to the upcoming Reverse Takeover (RTO) transaction. This transaction involves a three-cornered amalgamation where Polymath and a wholly-owned subsidiary of AnalytixInsight will merge to form a new entity, resulting in Polymath becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of AnalytixInsight. Following the RTO, AnalytixInsight plans to change its name to “Polymath Network Inc.” and consolidate its shares on a 25:1 basis. The exchange ratio for Polymath shareholders has been adjusted from 4.292 to 6.25427 AnalytixInsight shares per Polymath share, reflecting Polymath’s increased valuation after acquiring assets from Polymesh Association, including the Polymesh blockchain and POLYX tokens. The transaction’s completion is contingent upon shareholder and regulatory approvals, as well as the successful closing of a concurrent financing round aiming to raise at least $18.75 million through the issuance of subscription receipts. The annual general and special meeting of AnalytixInsight shareholders to approve the transaction has been rescheduled to August 25, 2025.

    • Acquisition of Polymesh Assets by Polymath

    On May 13, 2025, pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement, Polymath, indirectly through Polymesh Labs, agreed to acquire certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of Polymesh Switzerland, including POLYX tokens held by Polymesh Switzerland (the “Polymesh Labs Acquisition“). Polymesh Switzerland is a not for profit association formed under the laws of Switzerland and is an Arm’s Length Party (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSXV). The Polymesh Labs Acquisition is subject to certain conditions, and is expected to close prior to the Transaction.

    The Polymesh Labs Acquisition will enable Polymesh Labs’ principal business to include the oversight of the Polymesh blockchain, including POLYX tokens associated with the Polymesh blockchain, and the development of TokenStudio, the Polymesh wallet, other software application, and further investment in developing the Polymesh ecosystem. The Polymesh blockchain is a Layer-1 public-permissioned blockchain using Polkadot’s modular tool substrate framework that is designed for tokenizing real-world assets. It builds on the ERC1400 standard and layers in additional capabilities around governance, identity, compliance and confidentiality. POLYX tokens are the native tokens of the Polymesh blockchain and are used as a utility tokens to provide holders access to the Polymesh blockchain. POLYX tokens are only created when block rewards are minted to reward those that participate in the proof-of-stake consensus mechanisms that validates transactions and produces new blocks on the blockchain. These participants are referred to as “validators” and “nominators”, collectively referred to as “stakers”.

    About Polymath Research Inc.

    Polymath’s principal business is the creation of its flagship white label SaaS technology solution, referred to as Polymath’s Capital Platform, which includes the Polymath dApps and enables customers to create platforms to tokenize real-world assets. Polymath’s Capital Platform technology solution is available for license by third parties. Under this licensing arrangement, Polymath may provide technology services to its customers for the setup, maintenance, and support of their use of Polymath’s Capital Platform technology solution. In each case, Polymath works with, or will work with, the customer to tailor the technology to the particular requirements of the customer and the assets to be tokenized. Polymath as a technology services provider is not registered with any Canadian or foreign securities regulatory authority and its services do not include acting as a broker or the promotion or marketing of securities.

    Polymath also generates revenue by staking proprietary POLYX token that is held in its treasury. Staking is not a service offered to third parties, but it is a revenue stream that monetizes treasury assets. Crypto staking is an important aspect of the nominated proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, which defines which blocks get written to the blockchain, as well as the blockchain network’s roles, rules, and incentives. Polymath stakes 100% of the POLYX tokens held in its treasury, with 50% of the staking rebonded on the Polymesh blockchain and the other 50% converted to fiat and bitcoin reserves.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access.  Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:
    Polymath Research Inc.
    Vince Kadar
    CEO
    Vince@polymath.network 
    +1-613-276-0695

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Innovations in Imaging, such as AI-Enhanced Retinal & Fundus Camera Systems are Booming Along with Revenue Opportunities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The Retinal and Fundis Camera market has shown growth in the recent years and is expected to continue for years to come. Fundus cameras are sophisticated instruments utilized in ophthalmology for capturing detailed images of the retina. They employ a specialized optical design akin to an indirect ophthalmoscope, with the angle of view being a key parameter defining their functionality… Fundus photography enables physicians to meticulously examine retinal changes over time, facilitating collaboration among colleagues and enhancing patient care. A recent report from Precedence Research said: “The fundus cameras market experiences growth driven by the evolving landscape of imaging technologies, particularly in diagnosing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Traditionally, fundus photography with film-based cameras, preferably through pharmacologically dilated pupils, has been pivotal in documenting AMD severity. The emergence of high-resolution digital cameras presents new opportunities in the market. Comparisons among different imaging systems, including nonstereoscopic color retinal images taken with digital cameras through dark-adapted and dilated pupils, as well as stereoscopic images captured with standard film cameras, highlight the expanding applications of fundus cameras. Such comparisons underscore the need for versatile imaging solutions to accommodate diverse clinical scenarios, thus fueling the growth in the fundus cameras market.” Active healthcare/tech companies active in the markets include: Avant Technologies Inc. (OTCQB: AVAI), Outlook Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: OTLK), Eyenovia, Inc. (NASDAQ: EYEN), Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE: BLCO), Biomea Fusion, Inc. (NASDAQ: BMEA).

    Precedence Research continued: “The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into fundus cameras presents a significant opportunity for market growth. AI algorithms demonstrate high accuracy in detecting diseases like diabetic retinopathy (DR), offering improved diagnostic capabilities. Furthermore, machine learning algorithms utilizing preoperative fundus photography alongside other data parameters have shown promise in identifying at-risk eyes for postoperative complications after refractive surgery. Deep learning algorithms applied to fundus photographs have been successful in predicting cerebral white matter hyperintensity in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and detecting DR with remarkable precision. Studies exploring AI’s role in correlating fundus photos, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and external eye photography with systemic diseases exhibit promising results. Particularly, AI-driven screening for DR holds significant potential. These advancements highlight the prospective role of AI-integrated fundus imaging in screening, diagnosing, and managing various retinal diseases, thus creating substantial opportunities for growth in the fundus cameras market.” The report added: “The global fundus cameras market size accounted for USD $676.46 Million in 2025 and is forecasted to hit around USD $943.12 Million by 2034, representing a CAGR of 3.80% from 2025 to 2034.”

    Avant Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: AVAI) and Partner, Ainnova, Finalizing Automated Retinal Camera Prototype Ahead of Full-Scale Development Avant Technologies, Inc. (“Avant” or the “Company”) and its JV partner, Ainnova Tech, Inc., (Ainnova), a leading healthcare technology company focused on revolutionizing early disease detection using artificial intelligence (AI), today announced the Company is in the final stages of prototyping its proprietary automated retinal camera. Ainnova’s new device will offer users a low cost, easier to use camera that captures images automatically and then uploads those images to the Company’s Vision AI software platform, which then produces a “risk report” in mere seconds.

    Vinicio Vargas, Chief Executive Officer at Ainnova and member of the Board of Directors of the joint venture company, Ai-nova Acquisition Corp., said, “The cost of a fundus camera has always been a barrier to entry into in this market, so our low-cost camera, which is a fraction of the cost of currently available cameras on the market, should allow us to not only enter the market, but to capture a large share of the market.

    “Another significant advantage will be that our camera will be seamlessly packaged together with our Vision AI platform, allowing us to refer more patients in less time and accurately to medical specialists. Also, one of our objectives is to integrate other technologies to this preventive screening, expanding the scope from only diabetic patients to patients who have other risk factors and want to prevent other diseases from a more complete approach.”

    Vision AI is a powerful cutting-edge, AI-driven platform that can quickly and accurately detect the early markers of a host of diseases by applying AI models to examine imaging data from the eye to expedite earlier detection and allow patients to better manage their disease. The diseases that Vision AI can detect, include diabetic retinopathy, other retinopathies, such as glaucoma, macular edema, age-related macular degeneration, and other anomalies, as well as other diseases that do not require retinal images, and instead, use other datapoints that Ainnova has integrated into the software like the detection of cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, liver fibrosis, and chronic kidney disease (CKD).

    Currently, Ainnova’s Vision AI software works well with any fundus camera on the market; however, Ainnova and Avant are aiming for exclusivity by developing a lower-cost, easier to use camera.

    Ai-nova Acquisition Corp. (AAC), the company formed by the partnership between Avant and Ainnova, will develop the retinal cameras as part of the joint venture and licensing deal to facilitate the development of Ainnova’s technology portfolio. AAC owns the global licensing rights to develop, maintain, and market Ainnova’s technology portfolio. CONTINUED… Read this and more news for Avant Technologies at:   https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-avai/

    In other developments and happenings in the biotech market recently include:

    Outlook Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: OTLK), a biopharmaceutical company focused on enhancing the standard of care for bevacizumab for the treatment of retina diseases, recently announced that LYTENAVA™ (bevacizumab gamma) is now commercially available in Germany and the UK for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD). LYTENAVA™ (bevacizumab gamma) is the first and only authorized ophthalmic formulation of bevacizumab for use in treating wet AMD in adults in the European Union and UK.

    “We are excited to have launched LYTENAVA™ (bevacizumab gamma) for patients with wet AMD in Germany and the UK. I would like to extend sincere gratitude to the Outlook team and our partners for their commitment and dedication that helped to get us to this major milestone. Going forward, we remain laser focused on ensuring success in Germany and the UK as well as preparing for additional launches across the region later this year and throughout 2026,” commented Jedd Comiskey, Senior Vice President, Head of Europe at Outlook Therapeutics.

    Eyenovia, Inc. (NASDAQ: EYEN), an ophthalmic technology company developing the proprietary Optejet® topical ophthalmic medication dispensing platform, recently provided updates on its potential merger with Betaliq and the ongoing development of its novel Optejet user filled device (UFD), and reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Negotiations continue towards a binding merger agreement with Betaliq, a clinical-stage private pharmaceutical company focused on glaucoma with access to Eyesol®, a non-aqueous technology that may address many of the needs of these patients. We have agreed to extend the binding exclusivity period set forth in the Letter of Intent until June 7, 2025, to allow more time to complete and execute the anticipated merger agreement.

    Progress in the development of the Optejet user-filled device (UFD) continues and remains on track to file for U.S. regulatory approval in September of this year. An approval would provide for potential multiple commercial opportunities either directly with consumers or through eye care practitioner offices as well as potential and existing license partners, including Arctic Vision in China and Korea.

    Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE: BLCO), a leading global eye health company dedicated to helping people see better to live better, recently announced the U.S. launch of LUMIFY Preservative Free redness reliever eye drops, the first and only preservative-free over-the-counter eye drops with low-dose brimonidine tartrate 0.025% that relieve redness of the eye due to minor eye irritations.

    “Consumers often say how amazed they are at the difference our original LUMIFY makes to their eyes, with over 50,000 five-star reviews as proof,” said John Ferris, president, Consumer, Bausch + Lomb. “LUMIFY Preservative Free brings that same fast-acting formula to those with sensitive eyes — delivering a visibly brighter, whiter look in just 60 seconds.”

    Biomea Fusion, Inc. (NASDAQ: BMEA), recently announced that preliminary clinical data from the Phase I COVALENT-103 trial of BMF-500 in adults with acute leukemia (AL) were selected for a poster presentation at the European Hematology Association (EHA) 2025 Congress, taking place June 12–15 in Milan, Italy.

    The presentation will highlight emerging safety, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD), and clinical activity of BMF-500, a covalent FLT3 inhibitor, in patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) AL, including those with FLT3 mutations (FLT3m) who have previously received FLT3 inhibitors such as gilteritinib (gilt).

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

    Follow us on Facebook to receive the latest news updates: https://www.facebook.com/financialnewsmedia

    Follow us on Twitter for real time Market News: https://twitter.com/FNMgroup

    Follow us on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialnewsmedia/

    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM expects to be compensated forty nine hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by Avant Technologies, Inc. by a non-affiliated third party. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757 

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: South Korea election: Lee Jae-myung takes over a country split by gender politics

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ming Gao, Research Scholar of East Asia Studies, Lund University

    Liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung has won South Korea’s snap presidential election with a clear lead. With all of the ballots counted, Lee won almost 50% of the vote, ahead of his conservative rival Kim Moon-soo on 41%. He takes over a country that is deeply divided along gender lines.

    Lee’s campaign effectively channelled voter anger. He focused on resetting South Korea’s politics after impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who was from the same party as Kim, unleashed chaos by declaring martial law in December 2024.

    However, gender conflict has continued, subtly but powerfully, to shape voter behaviour, campaign strategies and the national debate about who is to blame for the lack of opportunities in South Korea for young men.

    The election took place three years after Yoon pipped Lee to the presidency by just a quarter of a million votes – the closest margin in the country’s history. Yoon’s victory was, as has been noted by researcher Kyungja Jung, “the epitome of the utilisation of gender wars”.

    A key part of Yoon’s strategy was fostering a sense among young Korean men that it was now them, rather than women, who were the victims of discrimination. He secured 59% of the vote from men in their 20s and 53% from men in their 30s. Just 34% of women in their 20s supported him.

    In the latest election, gender was everywhere and nowhere all at once. On the one hand, not a single candidate put forward a meaningful policy to address structural gender discrimination in the workplace, domestic violence or public sexual harassment.

    None even mentioned the gaping absence of women candidates, despite thousands of mostly young women having filled the streets demanding democracy after Yoon’s martial law declaration. It was the first time in nearly 20 years that not a single woman stood among the contenders for the highest role in the country.

    Lee, positioning himself as the consensus candidate, attempted to neutralise gender as a campaign issue. When reporters asked him whether he would announce any women-related pledges, he said: “Why do you keep dividing men and women? They are all Koreans.”

    His remark may sound inclusive. But it signals a strategy to declare the gender issue off-limits for the sake of the greater good, thus sidestepping the specific inequalities that continue to divide the country. It’s a form of unity by erasure.

    Lee Jun-seok of the right-wing Reform party, on the other hand, tried to resurrect the same playbook that delivered Yoon to power in 2022. He attempted to provoke, polarise and win the loyalty of disaffected young men.

    As Yoon had done three years ago, he called for the abolition of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. And during a televised debate, he asked: “If someone says they want to stick chopsticks into women’s genitals, would that count as misogyny?” The question was a nod to a controversial online remark Lee Jae-myung’s son had made years earlier.

    Lee Jun-seok’s comment drew widespread condemnation and, ultimately, he only scraped about 7.7% of the total vote. This included over 37% of men in their 20s, while 58% of women in the same age group backed Lee Jae-myung. Gender is a highly political matter in South Korea whichever way you look at it.

    Gender wars

    This gender divide is now one of the most consistent features of South Korean politics. Women are vocal and visible in public to safeguard not just their own rights, but also South Korea’s democracy.

    Yet populist politicians have cultivated a perception among young men – squeezed by stagnant wages, fierce competition over jobs and social expectations – that their diminishing opportunities are due to policies they see as favouring women.

    This has resulted in many young South Korean men seeing feminism not as a movement for equality but as an obstacle to their own progress. In reality, their struggle has less to do with gender and more to do with structural inequalities in income and opportunity for all young Koreans.

    As Kyungja Jung observed in a paper from 2024: “Misogyny becomes an outlet for their [South Korean men’s] frustration and masculinity crisis as they search for a scapegoat for their struggles in neoliberal society. They blame women rather than the neoliberal economy.”

    Young people even from the best universities in Korea feel they cannot compete in the job market no matter what they do. South Korea now has one of the highest rates of young people not in education, employment or training among the OECD countries. This has given rise to the so-called “N-Po” generation, who feel so disadvantaged that they have given up on all future dreams of marriage, family and a career.

    South Korea isn’t alone in mobilising backlash against feminism and gender equality. Around the globe, gender has become one of the major fault lines in politics. In the November 2024 US election, Donald Trump led among young men by 14 points, while Kamala Harris had an 18-point edge with young women.

    Meanwhile, self-described misogynist Andrew Tate continues to shape young male attitudes online. And in Italy, Giorgia Meloni rose to power on a far-right platform that, despite being a woman herself, reduces women to their roles as mothers and homemakers.

    Young women played a key role in the protests against Yoon’s martial law declaration.
    Icelander / Shutterstock

    One model for change in South Korea could be to introduce quotas for women in politics to make their voices heard. Women only occupy around 20% of the 300 seats in South Korea’s National Assembly, trailing well behind the global (27.2%) and Asian (22.1%) averages. If women are not in politics making decisions about themselves, then their voices will not be heard beyond the streets.

    Lee Jae-myung’s win has given South Korea a moment to breathe. But the fault lines remain. When an entire demographic, be it young men or women, feels systematically unheard or structurally discriminated against, opportunistic voices can move in to fill the void.

    Gender is political. Ignoring it may be just as risky as confronting it head-on.

    Ming Gao receives funding from the Swedish Research Council. This research was produced with support from the Swedish Research Council grant “Moved Apart” (nr. 2022-01864). Ming Gao is a member of Lund University Profile Area: Human Rights.

    Joanna Elfving-Hwang receives funding from the Academy of Korean Studies. This research was supported by the Core University Program for Korean Studies through the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea and Korean Studies Promotion Service of the Academy of Korean Studies (AKS-2022-OLU-2250005).

    ref. South Korea election: Lee Jae-myung takes over a country split by gender politics – https://theconversation.com/south-korea-election-lee-jae-myung-takes-over-a-country-split-by-gender-politics-257923

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Detention of Alaa Abd el-Fattah | Lords urgent question

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Lord Black of Brentwood asks an urgent question in the Lords chamber on action being taken to secure the release from prison in Egypt of British citizen Alaa Abd el-Fattah, in light of the condition of his mother, Laila Soueif, who is at risk of death as a result of her ongoing hunger strike in protest at her son’s detention.

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pr53cwobakI

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Changes made to parking following community feedback

    Source: City of York

    Published Wednesday, 4 June 2025

    Executive members have listened to representations from local communities and agreed to several changes to car parking charges in the city.

    The changes come after traders expressed significant concerns at the cost to park in areas that previously had very low parking charges. The new pricing model introduces lower pricing in community shopping and residential areas outside of the inner ring road, whilst maintaining existing charges in the heart of the city. This forms part of an evidence led approach to tackle traffic congestion and improve travel options for everybody.

    Councillor Claire Douglas, Leader of City of York Council said:

    We are a council that listens. This year’s budget was the result of the most extensive budget consultation in years. We promised when setting the budget we would monitor the impact of any changes and continue to listen.

    “While making these changes now, we remain committed to tackling congestion in the city centre. We share the frustrations of those who are sat in traffic day in, day out. We are getting on with delivering our plans for a healthier, better connected and more sustainable city by taking steps to make it easier and quicker for everyone to get around.”

    Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport:

    We are grateful for those who have worked with us to explore solutions.

    “While we remain committed to tackling congestion and making it easier for everyone to get around, it is clear that some of the changes introduced were too much, too soon.

    “We’ve listened and will now get on with implementing these new arrangements”

    At a meeting tonight/last night (3 June) Executive agreed a range of changes to parking charges. At the same time Executive accepted a challenge under the Traffic Management Act, to carry out a review into the impact of the car parking charges at Bishopthorpe Road car park.

    The changes include:

    • approving an increase in the discount for the Minster Badge to 30% of the standard parking charge, from the current 24% to reduce the impact of increased parking charges on residents
    • maintaining existing charging at all city centre car parks
    • introducing an “outside the inner ring road” lower parking rate including Bishopthorpe Road, which it’s proposed is moved in line with charges approved for community car parks at East Parade and Rowntree Park in the council’s 2025-26 Budget. This would mean Bishopthorpe Road car park would become £3 per hour with a maximum stay of three hours, it would be £2.10 per hour for Minster Badge holders. It will also mean no Friday, Saturday or event uplift and no evening charge in these car parks
    • approving the adjustment of charges in the Micklegate and Priory Street area to the ‘outside the inner ring road’ on-street parking rate, rather than its existing higher city centre rate. This will be reviewed in the future. City centre evening parking rates for this area will still apply.
    • approving that East Parade Car Park should remain matched to the ‘outer’ on-street local parking rate to ensure consistency across out of city centre parking and reflect the different nature of local shopping areas outside of the immediate city centre.
    • removing the proposed charges for dedicated motorcycle bays. to recognise that the motorcycle bays are generally in locations where a car space is not possible. 
    • increase the discount for Low Emission vehicle permits to 20%, from the current 16% discount to set a discount that better reflects the contribution of all types of vehicles to congestion and takes in account the land-use impact of vehicle parking 
    • approve that Contract Parking permits are no longer linked to Season Tickets, and will be set at last year’s prices, plus circa 5% increase, with a 20% discount for low emission vehicles to recognise the unique circumstances of the small number of residents who live within the city walls without access to Resident parking schemes.
    • to undertake a review and develop a policy position around travel to places of worship.
    • accept the challenge to review parking charges under the Traffic Management Act 2004, this will include consultation with businesses and residents and community groups.

    The new charges will be advertised in accordance with legislation, meaning these charges will come into effect around Early July – after the statutory 21 day notice period and the necessary changes to the parking software.

    Now that Executive has approved a change to the reduction for the low vehicle emission discount, Contract, Season and ResPark permit holders will be refunded the difference. The council will automatically apply these refunds and will share more information on the refunds process as soon as possible.

    The papers from the Executive meeting are available to view at https://democracy.york.gov.uk/mgCalendarMonthView.aspx?GL=1&bcr=1 and the meeting is available to view online at https://www.york.gov.uk/webcasts

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/EGYPT – Anselmo Fabiano at the end of his mission in Egypt: “A pilgrim in the silence of the desert and with such a different and fascinating culture”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 4 June 2025

    AF

    Cairo (Agenzia Fides) – “I feel privileged to have experienced such a different side of the Church, also sharing some steps with my Muslim brothers. A precious opportunity to live a missionary experience with the Coptic Church of Egypt.”Anselmo Fabiano is a young man who lived two years on a mission before returning to Italy to complete his theology studies in Padua, on his journey toward the priesthood.“A pilgrim in the silence of the desert, among ancient monasteries, minarets that reach the sky, and such a different and fascinating culture. There have certainly been difficulties. The mission is also made up of unexpected events, challenges, and unimaginable experiences,” he notes. “And precisely for this reason, I thank God even more for having protected and accompanied me even in difficult times, allowing me to feel and touch His living presence in my life.””I cherish in my heart the people I have met, the many moments of shared life during family visits, in liturgical celebrations, in faith and in the friendship received and given. My daily life has been imbued with humanity and relationships that have granted me the grace to touch with my own hands the faith and love for the Lord of this people.””In these days I have renewed my “yes” to the Lord in the Society of African Missions, promising to dedicate my life to proclaiming the Gospel to the nations, and especially to Africa. An intense moment of prayer and celebration, in the simplicity and joy of the faith of these people. With this “yes” another step on my journey towards the priesthood begins.””It is a time for farewells, memories, smiles, and hugs before returning to Italy,” Anselmo concludes. “My heart is full of gratitude for these years of missionary life, for the many encounters and experiences lived in this land.” (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 4/6/2025)

    AF

    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/SOUTH KOREA – Newly elected President Lee Jae-myung officially begins his mandate

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 4 June 2025

    CBCK

    Seoul (Agenzia Fides) – Lee Jae-myung, the candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, is the new President of the Republic of South Korea. His term will last five years. In the 21st presidential elections held on June 3, Lee received 49.42% of the votes cast, while his rival, Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, received 41.15%. Voter turnout was the highest in 28 years, with 79.4% of eligible voters, and more than 35.2 million people went to the polls. In his first address to the nation, Lee Jae-myung promised to lead the country out of the crisis it has been going through following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who had illegally imposed martial law. The 61-year-old lawyer and human rights defender described the election as “judgment day” on the martial law imposed by Yoon and the People Power Party’s inability to prevent it. “The first task is to resolutely defeat the insurgency and ensure that there will never be another military coup against the people using guns and swords,” Lee said. This morning, June 4, Lee was officially confirmed as president by the National Election Commission, assuming presidential powers and command of the armed forces. The new political direction faces several economic and social challenges: In a highly polarized society, the largely export-based economy is exposed to unpredictable protectionist measures by the United States, which is both a major trading partner and the country’s most important security ally. Lee said he wants to increase investment in innovation and technology to boost economic growth, while also strengthening support for middle- and low-income families and combating inequality and corruption. In the area of foreign policy, the president, in presenting the main policy goals for his five-year term, announced his willingness to resume suspended talks with North Korea and to strengthen a trilateral partnership with the United States and Japan. In light of this new political phase, the Catholic Church in Korea has expressed its hopes. In a congratulatory message, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Korea recalled that “our people saw the roots of the Constitution shaken in the context of martial law and deeply felt the importance of the proper exercise of state power during the process of arresting and removing the president.” The message, signed by the chairman of the bishops’ conference, Bishop Matthias Iong-hoon Ri, further states: “At this time, we need reliable leadership who will uphold principles and walk the path of justice and true peace even amidst conflict and clashes.” The bishops ask that the new president lead the country “so that it becomes a place where all citizens… can enjoy dignity and respect, in accordance with the spirit of the Constitution.” In particular, the Bishops’ Conference requests: “Please examine the situation so that the South and the North can be reconciled, so that peace can be established on the Korean peninsula, and so that we can respond to the global situation with united forces.” Finally, it expresses the hope that “the Lord may grant wisdom and courage” so that “all the people of our country can become one and enjoy true happiness.” In an official statement, Archbishop Peter Chung Soon-taick, Archbishop of Seoul and Apostolic Administrator of Pyongyang, emphasizes: “President Lee Jae-myung, elected by the will of the people, will now stand by all, not just one side, and I believe that he will unite scattered hearts and demonstrate worthy leadership for all the people. Especially in these days when political conflicts and social tensions are increasing, I sincerely hope that the President will, above all, set an example of moderation and listening.” “I also hope,” the Archbishop continued, “that he will demonstrate a deep sense of responsibility and a strong spirit of solidarity” and that the President will be “a leader who builds bridges, not walls” and “goes beyond partisan interests to restore social trust and the common good.”Father Paul Seong Ki-heon of the Catholic University of Korea added: “Peace is a fundamental value not only for the Catholic Church, but for all humanity. We must think and act proactively for peace. I believe there is a genuine desire for peace in the hearts of our people, and I think the government must certainly commit itself to peace, especially in inter-Korean relations.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 4/6/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/KENYA – Two people linked to the murder of Father Bett murdered in mysterious circumstances

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) – The mystery surrounding the murder of Father Alloyce Cheruiyot Bett, the priest shot dead in the Tot area of Elgeyo Marakwet, in the Kerio Valley, on the Western Highlands of Kenya, is intensifying (see Fides, 23/5/2025). On June 3, the lifeless bodies of two men suspected of involvement in the priest’s murder were found on the Mogotio-Kiptuno road in Nakuru County.Their families, who had reported them missing on May 30, claim that the murders are directly linked to that of Father Bett. According to their families, the two men – Simon Yego, 45, and Collins Kipyatich, 22 – were kidnapped within hours of each other on the same day, in their village of Tot, where the priest was murdered on May 22.Collins was the first to be kidnapped, while undergoing a routine checkup at the Tot Health Center. The families of both men filed a complaint at the Tot police station the day after their disappearance.Their mutilated bodies were found in the village of Sawin, in Rungai sub-county, more than 200 kilometers from where they were abducted. In Kenya, the number of kidnappings and extrajudicial killings attributed to security forces is increasing, to the point that several bishops have intervened on the matter. “The government and the security apparatus should put an end to the kidnapping of our young people,” declared Bishop Joseph Obanyi Sagwe of Kakamega at the beginning of the year (see Fides, 8/1/2025). Regarding the murder of Father Bett, which occurred in the Kerio Valley, the Bishop of Eldoret had already launched an appeal in April to address the serious security situation in the area, where at least ten people, including two police officers, had been killed in banditry attacks in the previous two months (see Fides, 16/4/2025). (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 4/6/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUROPE/ITALY – Chinese Catholic community from across Italy celebrate the Day of Prayer for the Church in China in the Diocese of San Miniato

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Santa Croce sull’Arno (Agenzia Fides) – A procession of hundreds of Chinese and Italian Catholics marched through the streets of Santa Croce sull’Arno, a town in the Italian province of Pisa, on Sunday, May 25, before participating in a joint Eucharistic celebration in the local parish church. The occasion was the celebrations held by the Tuscan town for the 16th World Day of Prayer for the Church in China.In his 2007 letter to Chinese Catholics, Pope Benedict XVI suggested that May 24, “the day dedicated to the liturgical memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Help of Christians – venerated “with great devotion at the Marian Shrine of Sheshan in Shanghai” – could become “an occasion for the Catholics of the whole world to be united in prayer with the Church in China”.The reigning Pontiff at the time established this date as the “Day of Prayer for the Church in China”, to be celebrated in all Catholic communities worldwide. This year, Chinese Catholics living in Italy gathered at Santa Croce sull’Arno to celebrate the Day of Prayer together. They received a warm welcome from the Diocese of San Miniato and the local administration of the Tuscan municipality, which provided two elementary schools to accommodate the guests from Turin, Milan, Naples, Macerata, Padua, Rome, and Prato on May 24 and 25. With the support of the Bishop of San Miniato, Giovanni Paccosi, and the parish priest of Santa Croce, Don Donato Agostinelli, the Chinese priest Giovanni Yang Xiaogu, who serves as chaplain to the local Chinese parish, together with all the parishioners ensured that the Chinese guests, who had traveled from all over Italy, felt at home. “It is an important and beautiful thing that Chinese Catholics gather once a year to pray for their country and the spread of the faith in China’s great history,” Bishop Giovanni Paccosi told the local television station “Tele San Domenico.”“Without a doubt,” the bishop added, “our faith leads us to the dimension of the world, and the ‘division of languages of Babel’ regains its unity in Christ.””For Santa Croce sull’Arno,” Mayor Roberto Giannoni told the same local television station, “it was an honor to welcome the Chinese Catholic community in Italy for this day of prayer. It was truly beautiful for us to have them all here and to spend these two days with them, because it is a sign of fraternity and communion. A sign that Santa Croce is always open to any event that can bring awareness and peace to the world.” The spirit of fraternal communion characterized the moments spent together, from setting up the tents for accommodation to the Eucharist, from shared meals to cultural events. The packed program included moments of prayer and shared devotion, such as the procession and the recitation of the Rosary. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides, 4/6/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xinjiang to Complete Smart Checkpoint System by 2035

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    URUMQI, June 4 (Xinhua) — The Commerce Department of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and eight other regional departments on Thursday jointly released a plan for the implementation of the smart checkpoint project, which aims to comprehensively promote the modernization of checkpoints.

    The plan is divided into three stages: by 2025, the Horgos, Alashankou and Urumqi air ports will basically be modernized and intelligent; by 2030, they will reach the national advanced level in terms of informatization; and by 2035, a system of intelligent ports that adapts to the requirements of China’s modernization and maintains high-level opening up to the outside world will be fully built.

    The plan also includes measures such as improving convenience for foreign trade enterprises, establishing a platform for operating freight trains on China-Europe international freight routes, promoting the connectivity of Xinjiang’s checkpoints with neighboring Central Asian countries, and formulating standards for the construction of smart checkpoints.

    Wu Songli, deputy director of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Portal Administration Office, noted that Xinjiang is located in the core area of the Belt and Road. In the future, it will be necessary to further strengthen the joint use of portal facilities, equipment and data, and comprehensively increase their throughput capacity, thereby contributing to promoting overall opening-up to the outside world and promoting high-quality socio-economic development in Xinjiang. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting better relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, says MFA

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — China welcomes the recent upgrade of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan from the charge d’affaires level to the ambassador level, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Wednesday.

    The Chinese diplomat made the statement at a regular departmental press conference, adding that China is ready to continue to play a constructive role in promoting the improvement and development of relations between the two countries.

    Noting that this step will contribute to strengthening mutual trust and cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan and jointly maintaining peace and stability in the region, Lin Jian pointed out that this is also an important and positive measure for Pakistan and Afghanistan in implementing the results of the informal meeting of the foreign ministers of China, Afghanistan and Pakistan held in May this year.

    China is ready to work with regional countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, to protect regional peace, stability and development, and strive to build a community of shared destiny among neighboring countries, he concluded. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Comments on Lee Jae-myung’s Election as President of the Republic of Korea

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian on Wednesday commented on the election of Lee Jae-myung as the new president of the Republic of Korea (ROK).

    Chinese President Xi Jinping has already congratulated Lee Jae-myung on his election as President of the Republic of Korea, Lin Jian said at a regular departmental press conference, answering a relevant question.

    Noting that China and the ROK are important close neighbors and cooperation partners, Lin Jian stressed that China attaches great importance to developing relations with the ROK.

    The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman added that China is willing to cooperate with the ROK to remain true to the original goal of establishing diplomatic relations, firmly follow the direction of good-neighborliness and friendship, and adhere to the goal of achieving mutual benefit and win-win results.

    China is ready to work together with the Republic of Korea to promote the progressive development of bilateral relations of strategic cooperation and partnership for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries, the Chinese diplomat concluded. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 2nd Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology Exchanges will be held in Chengdu on June 10-12

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — The second Belt and Road Conference on Scientific and Technological Exchanges will be held from June 10 to 12 in Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, the State Council Information Office announced at a press briefing.

    According to Vice Minister of Science and Technology Chen Jiachang, the upcoming conference will be held under the theme of “Building an Innovative Silk Road for Common Development: Working Together to Build a Belt and Road Science and Technology Community.”

    According to the vice minister, holding high the banner of a community with a shared future for mankind, the conference aims to adhere to the principles of joint consultation, joint construction and shared benefits, strengthen exchanges, achieve consensus and deepen cooperation, so as to provide solid scientific and technological support for the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road.

    The conference will feature 38 events in five categories, including key events, theme events, special events, roundtables, and technology matchmaking sessions. The main topics for discussion will be academic exchanges, industrial innovation, international science mega-projects, artificial intelligence, and the alignment of science and technology strategies and plans under the Belt and Road Initiative.

    The conference is co-organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Engineering, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the All-China Society for Science and Technology, the People’s Government of Sichuan Province and the Chongqing City Government. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lee Jae-myung sworn in as new president of Republic of Korea

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SEOUL, June 4 (Xinhua) — Lee Jae-myung was sworn in as the new president of the Republic of Korea (ROK) on Wednesday after formally starting his five-year term earlier in the day.

    The country’s 21st president took the oath of office in the National Assembly /parliament/ building, declaring in a televised inauguration speech that he would serve all people, regardless of who they supported in the presidential election.

    Lee Jae-myung, the candidate of the country’s leading liberal Toburo Democratic Party, won 49.42 percent of the vote, defeating his main rival Kim Moon-soo, the candidate of the conservative Civil Power Party, by a wide margin of 8.27 percentage points.

    He stressed that Kazakhstan is at a turning point of great transformations in the face of challenges such as competition for artificial intelligence, climate change and the expansion of protectionist measures.

    Lee Jae-myung pledged to start with efforts to improve people’s living standards and revive the ailing economy, saying his government would create new engines of growth.

    The Liberal leader said his administration would seek balanced regional development across the country to ensure sustainable growth while actively supporting the cultural industry.

    He vowed to establish peace on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and cooperation with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), protecting people from various accidents such as riots and plane crashes.

    The president took office without a transition period after winning snap elections triggered by the removal of his predecessor from office due to the imposition of martial law in December last year.

    The inauguration ceremony was attended by the heads of parliament, the Supreme Court, the Constitutional Court and the Electoral Supervisory Board, as well as legislators and cabinet members.

    Before the event, Lee Jae-myung paid tribute to the fallen at the Seoul National Cemetery, where national heroes who gave their lives for the country are buried. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 14 militants killed in Pakistan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    ISLAMABAD, June 4 (Xinhua) — Pakistani security forces have killed 14 militants in an intelligence-driven operation in North Waziristan Agency of northwest Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday.

    Security forces reportedly carried out the operation on Monday and Tuesday in Datta Khel area of North Waziristan Agency.

    According to ISPR, the operation was launched following intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in the area, allegedly linked to a foreign-backed group.

    “During the operation, the troops effectively destroyed the hideout of the militants. After intense gunfight, 14 terrorists were killed,” the ISPR added.

    Following the clash, clearing operations were launched to eliminate any remaining militants in the area and ensure the security of the area. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Regional office of the International Union for Conservation of Nature opened in Uzbekistan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Tashkent, June 4 /Xinhua/ — A regional office of the International Union for Conservation of Nature has opened in Uzbekistan, the Narodnoye Slovo newspaper reported on Wednesday.

    “Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov held a meeting with Director General of the International Union for Conservation of Nature /IUCN/ Gretel Aguilar,” the statement said.

    During the talks, it was noted that since Uzbekistan joined IUCN in 2021, cooperation has been developing in a sustainable and constructive manner. Particular attention was paid to the opening of the first IUCN office for Central Asia in Uzbekistan.

    The parties also expressed confidence that the IUCN office will become an effective tool for implementing joint initiatives for nature conservation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In the first 4 months of this year, renovation of 5,679 old residential complexes has begun in Chinese cities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — China has started renovation of 5,679 residential complexes in cities and towns in six provincial-level regions including Hebei, Liaoning, Zhejiang, Hubei provinces, and the centrally-governed municipalities of Chongqing and Shanghai in the first four months of this year, the Ministry of Housing, Urban-Rural Development said Wednesday.

    By 2025, the country’s authorities plan to renovate 25,000 such residential complexes across China as part of efforts to transform cities into more sustainable, intelligent and livable areas.

    Between 2019 and 2024, the country began renovating a total of 28,000 old residential complexes, benefiting over 120 million people or 48 million households.

    During the period from 2019 to 2024, the country completed the reconstruction of 360 thousand km of housing and communal services networks, an additional 3.87 million parking spaces were created, and 78 thousand institutions for the care of the elderly and children were built.

    The ministry stated its readiness to continue working on improving living conditions and modernizing public utilities in order to better meet the daily needs of residents and ensure their safety. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Young ecologists presented their projects at the Polytechnic

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The Polytechnic University held a defense of projects, the authors of which were tenth-graders of School No. 174 of the Central District of St. Petersburg named after I.K. Beletsky. This is a pre-professional class on the engineering profile in the field of ecology, implemented by the Engineering and Construction Institute of SPbPU and the North-West Interregional Administration of the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources. This event was the result of year-long scientific research of schoolchildren in the field of ecology and environmental protection.

    The expert commission included Natalia Politaeva, professor of the Higher School of Hydraulic Engineering and Power Engineering at ISI, and Irina Russkova and Irina Klimova, associate professors of the Higher School of Technosphere Safety. Elena Dyakova, head of the interregional department of state environmental and land supervision for St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region, also participated.

    Young environmental engineers presented developments aimed at solving current environmental problems. Two projects attracted the experts’ special attention. Mark Meshcheryakov and Nikita Shaldenkov proposed a solution for detecting oil spills and monitoring the movement of Space Z vessels. Egor Melnikov developed a system for collecting garbage in city parks with the participation of birds, “Green Beak”.

    Participants received valuable recommendations on modernization of developed projects, paid attention to potential areas of development within the framework of engineering and scientific activities. The defense became not only the final point of the academic year, but also a significant step in professional orientation and formation of research competencies.

    Cooperation under the Rosprirodnadzor Class program began on May 14 this year, when an agreement was signed between SPbPU and the North-West Interregional Department of the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources Management at School No. 174. This event marked the beginning of the organization of pre-professional education in the field of environmental safety for schoolchildren interested in engineering and scientific careers.

    The project competition is of great importance for environmental education of schoolchildren. Many projects have great potential and practical significance. Their authors impressed with their intuition, extraordinary approach and deep knowledge, – noted Natalia Politaeva.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: IAEA chief warns of nuclear safety risks in Ukraine

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi had warned of continued nuclear safety concerns in Ukraine, the Ukrainian TSN.ua media outlet reported Wednesday.

    “It is clear that the dangers to nuclear safety continue to be very real and ever-present,” Grossi was quoted as saying during his visit to Ukraine on Tuesday.

    He emphasized that the presence of the agency at the Ukrainian nuclear power plants is essential to helping prevent a severe nuclear accident.

    The Chernobyl plant saw one of the worst nuclear accidents in history on April 26, 1986, when a series of explosions ripped through the No. 4 reactor, causing radiation to spread across Ukraine and other European countries. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Access and fairness’ – LGPS pension scheme consultation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    News story

    ‘Access and fairness’ – LGPS pension scheme consultation

    GAD’s analysis supports a consultation which has been issued by the government, on the Local Government Pension Scheme.

    Credit: Shutterstock

    Analysis and expertise from the Government Actuary’s Department (GAD) supports a consultation on the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) in England and Wales.

    Local Government Pension Scheme in England and Wales: Access and fairness” has been issued for consultation by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). It will be available until 7 August 2025. The consultation is open to everyone but is relevant to LGPS members, employers with staff in the scheme and administering authorities.

    Jim McMahon, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution said the consultation, “fundamentally improves fairness in and access to the LGPS, addressing key issues that have been neglected for too long and treating them with the urgency they deserve.”

    GAD’s analysis

    Among the other LGPS topics respondents are being asked to consider are:

    • survivor pensions and death grants
    • the Gender Pension Gap
    • people who opt out of the scheme
    • forfeiture
    • McCloud remedy

    GAD supported the MHCLG pensions policy team with the consultation, by providing analysis to support various aspects of the report. Analysis included the potential cost impact of proposed changes to the scheme, and illustrations of how these could positively affect individual scheme members.

    The report notes that 74% of the 6.7 million members of the LGPS are women and references previous analysis from GAD prepared for the LGPS Scheme Advisory Board (PDF, 1.24MB), which outlined the Gender Pensions Gap in the LGPS. The analysis indicated that, for several reasons, the average accrued pension for the millions of women working to provide local public services was more than 40% lower than for their male counterparts.

    A proposal of the consultation is that GAD will work with MHCLG, and other scheme stakeholders, to help develop the detail of the Gender Pension Gap data to be disclosed by each of the LGPS funds.

    Improving fairness

    The LGPS is for people who have worked in local government. Much of the consultation focusses on equal access to the scheme and looks to address key issues that have been previously neglected. The consultation focus is on equality, fairness, integrity, efficiency and accuracy.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: For those who dream of the roar of the cosmodrome. The program of the Museum of Cosmonautics in June

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Cosmonautics Museum opened in April 1981 in the stylobate of the monument to the Conquerors of Space on Prospekt Mira — the year that 20 years had passed since the legendary flight of Yuri Gagarin. Since then, it has invariably become a point of attraction for all those who are attracted by space. After a large-scale reconstruction in 2009, the exhibition area increased fourfold, and the collection exceeded 100 thousand storage units, occupying eight halls and a film and lecture hall — now it is one of the largest scientific and historical museums on the planet. Here you can see full-size models of the base block of the Mir station and the Soyuz spacecraft, authentic descent vehicles, the first satellites and famous examples of spacesuits for flights and spacewalks, as well as the personal belongings of cosmonauts. The museum has prepared a rich program for the first month of summer.

    Rescue of the out-of-control station

    On June 6, the Museum of Cosmonautics will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the mission to rescue the unmanned orbital station Salyut-7 with a lecture, film screening and quest: visitors will be invited to literally live the story of the heroes Vladimir Dzhanibekov and Viktor Savinykh, who took part in the landmark flight of 1985.

    Then Soyuz T-13 with the cosmonauts on board launched to the immobilized object so that the crew could manually dock to it and restore its functionality. This was the first manual docking in Russian history with an unmanned station that had lost power and communications, threatening to leave orbit and sprinkle the Earth’s surface with debris. After several days of intense work in extreme conditions, the crew restarted the power system, deployed solar batteries and completely restored the complex.

    On June 6, on the anniversary of the memorable event, at 2:00 PM, cosmonaut expert Pavel Gaiduk will give a lecture entitled “Notes from a Dead Station”, and at 3:30 PM, the movie “Salyut-7”, based on the crew’s memoirs, will be shown in the cinema hall. From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, there will be an interactive quest about the Salyut-7 mission – participants will test their knowledge of the history of spacecraft and memorial items from the museum’s permanent exhibition, as well as about the cosmonauts, the station and work on it.

    Russia Day at the Cosmonautics Museum

    On June 12, the museum will take part in the Moscow Museum Week event and will be open for free admission. Tickets can be purchased atMos.ru.

    From 12:00 to 16:00 at the main entrance you can take part in astronomical observations, organized jointly with the Center for Pedagogical Excellence: through telescopes, guests will examine the heavenly bodies even in the middle of the day. In addition, the museum will host a creative master class, organized by the Rostokino Gallery, thematically related to the holiday and dedicated to the achievements of Russian cosmonautics. Participants will master various artistic techniques and learn many interesting things about space.

    At 17:00, a walking lecture will begin at the Memorial House-Museum of Academician S.P. Korolev (a branch of the Cosmonautics Museum). During the walk, visitors will learn the history of the appearance on the map of Moscow of a unique space where the famous Soviet scientist, chief designer of rocket and space systems, lived. You can get on an unusual excursion with tickets to the house-museum andpre-registration.

    Exhibitions and “Vinyl Space”

    Until June 24, the Museum of Cosmonautics will continue to host the exhibition “12 Minutes and 9 Seconds That Shook the World.” This is a joint project with the Russian State Archive of Scientific and Technical Documentation, dedicated to the sixtieth anniversary of the first spacewalk by Alexei Leonov. It features many exclusive materials, including previously unpublished production drawings of “Product 3KD,” the Voskhod-2 spacecraft. Admission to the exhibition is bytickets to the museum.

    Until June 30, the outdoor exhibition “Space Milestones of Designer Semenov” is open, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Yuri Semenov, President and General Designer of the Rocket and Space Corporation Energia (1989–2005), Hero of Socialist Labor, and Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    At the end of the month, the Memorial House-Museum of Academician S.P. Korolev will once again host an evening of music as part of the Vinyl Space project – this time in honor of the 130th anniversary of the birth of singer and conductor Leonid Utesov, as well as the 120th anniversary of the birth of opera singer Ivan Kozlovsky.

    The Museum of Cosmonautics will not ignore Youth Day either: a special festive program is being prepared for June 29, the details of which will be announced a little later.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154799073/

    MIL OSI Russia News